CHAT: Fracking debate

One of the most explosive environmental issue of our time — the natural-gas extraction method of hydraulic fracturing, or fracking — could come to a head within days.

To meet a Feb. 27 deadline to finalize regulations that could allow fracking, the state first must publish the massive environmental review on which those regulations are based. The deadline to release that review is Wednesday.

If the Feb. 27 deadline isn't met, yet another public comment period on the draft regulations will be required. That would mean more debate on the issue that already has divided communities, neighbors and families.

Those in favor of fracking argue the economic benefits will create jobs, and save land and livelihoods in economically poor places, like Sullivan County.

Those who oppose the process believe fracking will pollute drinking water and ravage open spaces and clean air.